Beavers' Handiwork Causing Concern in NJ

May 2, 2006 -- A dilemma is unfolding in Gloucester County, New Jersey over a large dam built by some beavers. It is affecting a community in East Greenwich Township. Officials say the beavers' handiwork could lead to some problems if it's left standing.

It could be development in other parts of South Jersey that has caused beavers to move and set up lodges in East Greenwich Township. Whatever the reason, local officials say they are there and the beavers have been busy.

Until now, Public Workers manager Joe Schweigart says the beavers' craftsmanship is quite evident in perfectly carved out tree barks.

In nature beaver dams actually help build wetlands which serve as homes for wildlife. Sometimes though the tireless workers can be problematic for people like those along the Nehonsey Brook in East Greenwhich.

Township officials say that the beavers have been so busy that in the last couple months they've managed to clog and overflow pipe that's now underwater and turn the earthen dam into a waterfall.

Mayor John de George is concerned that the dam will fail sending a torrent off water toward the Swedesboro Avenue Bridge 2000 feet downstream. It is a busy artery between Greenwich and East Greenwich Townships, just off 295.

Meanwhile, Public Works recently destroyed the beaver dam. It was causing the Nehonsey Brook to back up into the yards of nearby homes. The dam was the length of a football field.

In destroying some of the beaver dams, fish and wildlife experts say the beavers will move to other locations. Officials here say hopefully it will be to other streams or creek.

(Copyright 2006 by Action News. All Rights Reserved.)

Get more News »

• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•